Franklin County House Democrats Announce $42M for Community Connectivity to Ensure Equitable and Safe Transit

COLUMBUS – The Franklin County Delegation of the Ohio House of Representatives Democratic Caucus today announced that the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) has been awarded $42M dollars in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Biden-Harris Administration for the construction of the proposed West Broad Street Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project

“Broad Street is a high traffic, east-west roadway with critical and historical significance for Central Ohio. These funds will ensure equitable access, mobility, and safety for those who depend on the West Broad Street Bus Rapid Transit,” said Franklin County House Democrats. “The project will bridge the divide in our communities while building on the foundation of regional planning efforts that will prepare Central Ohio for continued growth in the coming years.”

“I am proud to have supported this project,” said Rep. Ismail Mohamed. “Improving equity and access to daily needs such as jobs, education, health care, food, nature, and recreation through the BRT project is an essential step towards a better future for Central Ohio’s historically disadvantaged communities.”

COTA was one of only 132 applicants who received an Neighborhood Access and Equity Grant award out of 686 total applications. The West Broad Street BRT was also only one of 5 projects highlighted by USDOT in a virtual story that spotlights communities’ stories, the historic context for the program, and the future it seeks through funding the reconnection of communities.